Seniors Receive Appointments to U.S. Naval Academy

Two Duncanville High School seniors recently received prestigious appointments to the United States Naval Academy. The young men will receive their college education while serving their country.

Caleb Griffith received appointments to West Point and the Coast Guard, but said he chose the Naval Academy after extensive research to see which institution historically produced the greatest number of astronauts. His heart is set on becoming a pilot in the Navy and then being selected to the astronaut program. Caleb said he’s looking forward to the adventure.

Caleb joined the DHS swim team so he could prepare for his eventual career in the Navy. Without any formal training, he made the varsity team the summer before his senior year and placed high enough in district competition in freestyle to go on to regionals. Caleb says Coach Stephanie Bernier made all the difference for him.

“I want to give a lot of credit to my coach – the physical aspect – that’s what I struggled with most,” Caleb said. “With her help and training, that definitely prepared me.”

Jared McCullough's love of soccer helped him earn an opportunity to attend the Naval Academy. While playing for a club team, he met a coach who recruited him to come play for the U.S. Navy.

Jared says the rigor of his courses at DHS, particularly his Biology class with Bill Groene, prepared him for the academics he’ll study in college.

“His class was so hard,” Jared said. “This was my first time actually studying for a class and doing homework at home. He pushed me and I really appreciate that.”

Jared intends to major in engineering with plans to join the Navy’s Civil Engineering Corps which is responsible for overseeing the planning, design, acquisition, construction, operation, and maintenance of the Navy's shore facilities.